Probation Service to Confine Serious Offenders to Specific Zones from October

Serious violent and sexual offenders released on probation will face strict geographical restrictions from October, under a new government scheme. The Probation Service will implement 'restriction zones', confining individuals to areas sometimes no larger than a few square miles.

The measure is designed to intensify the monitoring of high-risk individuals, limiting their access to potential victims or areas deemed sensitive. These zones will be determined on a case-bycase basis, factoring in the offender's history and risk assessment.

Probation officers will possess the authority to enforce these restrictions, with breaches potentially leading to recall to prison. The initiative represents a significant shift in post-release management, prioritising public safety through enhanced surveillance and geographical control over individuals deemed a continued threat.